Board game system and associated method

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to a system for use with a board game including a board, mock currency, and one or more tokens. The system includes a plurality of liability cards allowing players of the board game to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a liability limit and including a liability balance, as well as a tracking system for monitoring the liability assumed by each of the players. During play of the board game, the players can upgrade from one liability card to another upon meeting predetermined criteria. Additionally, the present disclosure relates to a board game itself that includes a board, one or more tokens movable relative to the board, and the aforementioned plurality of liability cards.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of, and priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/186,167, filed on Aug. 5, 2008, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/973,767, filed on Sep. 20, 2007, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/974,219, filed on Sep. 21, 2007, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/025,799, filed on Feb. 3, 2008, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/027,883, filed on Feb. 12, 2008, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to board games. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a system adapted for use with a variety of fantasy purchase board games, as well as a method of using the system, to improve play of the board games by incorporating the principles of debt and debt management. Additionally, the present disclosure relates to a novel board game itself.

2. Background of Related Art

For many years, board games have served as a means of entertainment and education for both children and adults for many years. Fantasy purchase board games, or board games in which the players are give the opportunity to “purchase” properties, acquire assets, and/or make investments, are particularly popular.

The art is replete with examples of such games, one of the most famous being MONOPOLY, which is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,026,082 to C. B. Darrow, and distributed by Hasbro, Inc, 1027 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, R.I. 02862-1059. The MONOPOLY patent describes a board game including a board with spaces corresponding to real estate properties that may be improved upon by the players. During play, each player experiences an influx and an outflow of wealth that is reflected in mock currency.

Many modern fantasy purchase board games mirror contemporary economic and societal concerns, and incorporate concepts such as debt management. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,962,336 to Glass discusses a credit card management board game in which players are initially assigned a credit card balance that they seek to reduce during play through the acquisition and sale of assets.

Also known in the art are games and apparatus that are adaptable to existing board games. U.S. Pat. No. 4,585,233 to Wilson describes one board game that is playable in conjunction other to provide expanded and more complex game play. In particular, the Wilson patent discloses a board game for use with MONOPOLY. Another adaptation on MONOPOLY is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,810,359 to Wilkins et al., in which various rules, features, and attributes are incorporated into the game.

There remains a need, however, for a system that can be used with existing board games, and for a new board game itself, which incorporates the concepts of debt, credit, and credit management.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a system is disclosed for use with a board game playable by a plurality of players and including a board and one or more tokens. The system includes a plurality of liability cards and a tracking system. The liability cards include a liability balance, and allow the players to assume an amount of liability up to a liability limit. The tracking system is used during play to monitor the liability assumed by the players through use of the plurality of liability cards.

In one embodiment of the system, the plurality of liability cards includes a first liability card allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a first liability limit, and a second liability card allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a second liability limit, wherein the second liability limit is grater than the first liability limit.

In an alternate embodiment, the plurality of liability cards further includes a third liability card that allows the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a third liability limit, wherein the third liability limit is greater than the first liability limit and the second liability limit.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of playing a board game including a board and one or more tokens is disclosed. The method includes the step of providing a plurality of liability cards, wherein the plurality of liability cards includes at least a first liability card with a first liability balance and a second liability card with a second liability balance. The first liability card allows players of the board game to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a first liability limit, and the second liability card allows the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a second liability limit, which may be greater than the first liability limit. The method also includes the steps of providing each player with the first liability card, providing each player with the second liability card upon meeting predetermined criteria, and playing the board game. In various embodiments of the disclosed method, the players may be provided with the second liability card upon using the first liability card a predetermined number of times, upon acquiring a predetermined number of assets, and/or upon reducing the first liability balance to zero.

The step of playing the board game includes allowing each player to selectively use at least one of the first liability card and the second liability card to assume a liability during play of the board game. Using the first liability card to assume a liability will effectuate an increase in the first liability balance, and using the second liability card to assume a liability will effectuate an increase in the second liability balance.

In one embodiment of the disclosed method, each player with the first liability card may be provided a first allowance upon passing a predetermined location on the board, and each player with the second liability card may be provided a second allowance upon passing the predetermined location on the board, wherein the second allowance is greater than the first allowance. Additionally, or alternatively, each player may be required to reduce at least one of the first liability balance and the second liability balance by at least a predetermined amount upon passing a predetermined location on the board. When a player only partially reduces the second liability balance, that player's second liability balance may be increased by a predetermined amount.

In another embodiment of the disclosed method, the players may also be provided with a third liability card upon meeting predetermined criteria. For example, the players may be provided with the third liability card upon using the second liability card a predetermined number of times, and/or upon reducing the second liability balance to zero. The third liability card allows the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a third liability limit that is greater than each of the first liability limit and the second liability limit.

During play, it is envisioned that each player with the third liability card may be provided a third allowance upon passing a predetermined location on the board, wherein the third allowance is greater than the first allowance and the second allowance. Additionally, or alternatively, each player with the third liability card may be required to reduce the third liability balance to zero upon passing a predetermined location on the board a predetermined number of times, and each player failing to do so may be required to relinquish the third liability card.

These and other features of the system and board game disclosed herein will become more readily apparent to those skilled in the art through reference to the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in, and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed system and board game. Together with the foregoing general discussion, and the description of various embodiments which follows, the drawings provide a visual explanation of the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a top, perspective view of a board game shown with a system in accordance with the present disclosure that includes a plurality of liability cards, a tracking system, and instructions for play;

FIG. 1A is a top view of an additional liability card for use with the system seen in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 is a side view of a timer for use with the system seen in FIG. 1 to determine when play of the board game has ended;

FIG. 3 is a top, perspective view of a board game in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 3A is a top view of a certificate for use with the board game shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 4 is a top view of a plurality of value enhancers for use with one embodiment of the board game shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a top view of a plurality of debit notes for use with another embodiment of the board game shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a top view of a plurality of benefit cards and a plurality of detriment cards for use with still another embodiment of the board game shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is a top view of a plurality of investment slips for use with an embodiment of the game shown in FIG. 3; and

FIG. 8 is a top, perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the board game shown in FIG. 3.

DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

Various embodiments of the presently disclosed system, board game, and associated methods of play will now be described in detail with reference to the foregoing figures wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements. The system, board game, and associated methods disclosed herein allow one or more players to develop and hone their ability to assume and manage debt and credit. During game play, the players are provided with the opportunity to acquire a plurality of liability cards that allow the players to acquire assets and assume liabilities, thereby generating debt that has to be managed during play. The players vie for “upgrades” between the plurality of liability cards to gain advantages over one another. For example, by “upgrading” from one liability card to another, the players may be allowed to acquire more valuable assets, assume greater liability, and or establish increased wealth.

In the drawings and the following description, the term “board game” should be understood to include any now known, or later devised, apparatus or medium through which fantasy transactions, i.e., the imaginary acquisition of assets and/or the imaginary assumption of liabilities, may be conducted. The term “board game” should be further understood to encompass both physical, tangible apparatus, as well as virtual apparatus that may be played and/or maintained in a virtual space, such as a CD-ROM or the internet. The term “player” should be understood as referring to any entity subject to the constraints of game play, including any artificial, computerized, or automated entities. In addition, the term “liability” should be construed as referring to any asset that is owed from one entity to another. Finally, the term “liability card” should be interpreted as any medium which may be used to reflect, record, acknowledge, or assume one or more liabilities.

FIG. 1 illustrates a board game 100, and one embodiment of a game system, referred to generally by the reference character 10, for use with the board game 100 during play. Although illustrated as a physical board game, it should be understood that the board game 100 may be any tangible or virtual apparatus or medium through which fantasy transactions may be conducted, as discussed above. The board game 100 includes mock currency 102, a board 104, dice 106, or another suitable mechanism for determining player movement, e.g., a rotatable, numbered wheel (not shown), and at least one token 108 movable about the board 104 and used to represent a player during play of the board game 100. While it is envisioned that the board game 100 may include additional elements, such as a tray or structure for holding or organizing the mock currency 102, or a support structure for the board 104, these additional elements are known in the art and will not be discussed herein in the interests of brevity.

The mock currency 102 may be used during play, at each player's discretion, to partially or completely acquire an asset and/or assume or satisfy a liability. It is envisioned that the mock currency 102 may be divided into one or more denominations, e.g., $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and/or $100 bills or notes, as seen in FIG. 1.

The board 104 includes at least one path 110 along which the players travel during play. The path 110 is divided into individual spaces 112 that correspond to assets, such as real estate, property, companies, and the like, as well as spaces 112 that direct the players to undertake a specific action, such as the acquisition of an asset, the assumption of a liability, or relocation to another space 112 on the path 110. When landing on a space 112 corresponding to an asset, the players may choose, or may be directed, to acquire the asset represented thereby.

Referring still to FIG. 1, the system 10 will be discussed. The system 10 includes a plurality of liability cards 12, a tracking system 14, and instructions “I” for using the system 10 in connection with the board game 100. The plurality of liability cards 12 includes at least one first liability card 12A, and at least one second liability card 12B. The respective first and second liability cards 12A, 12B correspond in number to the maximum number of players that may participate in the board game 100. For example, if the board game 100 is suitable for play with four players, the plurality of liability cards 12 will include eight liability cards 12, i.e., four of the first liability cards 12A and four of the second liability cards 12B. During play of the board game 100, the plurality of liability cards 12 serve as an alternative means through which the players can acquire an asset and/or assume or satisfy a liability. Specifically, the plurality of liability cards 12 allow the players to manufacture debt by assuming liabilities that must be later satisfied.

The liability cards 12A, 12B are each attributed an initial liability balance, and allow a player to assume debt up to a liability limit. For example, in one embodiment of the system 10, the liability cards 12A, 12B are each attributed an initial liability balance of $0, the first liability card 12A includes a liability limit of $300, and the second liability card 12B includes a liability limit of $600. In additional embodiments of the system 10, the initial liability balances and the liability limits of the liability cards 12A, 12B may be adjusted to vary play of the board game 100.

In an alternative embodiment, the system 10 may further include at least one third liability card 12C, which can be seen in FIG. 1A. Commensurate with the preceding discussion of the liability cards 12A, 12B, when included in the system 10, the third liability card 12C will be attributed an initial liability balance, e.g., $0, and will allow the player to assume debt up to a particular liability limit, such as $2000, for example. It is also contemplated, however, that the liability limit of the third liability card 12C may be infinite, such that the players will not be restricted in the amount of debt that can be assumed using the liability card 12C. As discussed with respect to the embodiment of the system 10 seen in FIG. 1, the initial liability balance and the liability limit of the third liability cards 12C may be adjusted to vary play of the board game 100.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the tracking system 14 is used to monitor the assets that are acquired, as well as the liabilities that are assumed and satisfied by the players during play of the board game 100. Additionally, the tracking system 14 provides a mechanism that allows each player's inventory of liability cards 12 to be recorded and updated, in addition to any amount of corresponding liability assumed thereby. The tracking system 14 may include several sheets of paper 16 arranged into a book or pad 18, as shown in FIG. 1, or alternatively, the tracking system 14 may include an electronic unit (not shown) such as that described in commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/186,167, the entire contents of which have been previously incorporated by reference herein.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, play of the board game 100 will be discussed in connection with the system 10. Before beginning play, each player is provided with a one of the first liability cards 12A, and one of the players is selected to act as a “Banker.” The “Banker” will be responsible for distributing the plurality of liability cards 12 amongst the players, and for managing and recording each transaction during play of the board game 100. For example, the “Banker” will accept payments using the mock currency 102, and will be responsible for tracking transactions effectuated via the plurality of liability cards 12 using the tracking system 14.

As play of the board game 100 progresses, the players will be provided with opportunities to “upgrade” from the first liability card 12A to the second liability card 12B upon meeting predetermined criteria. For example, a player may become eligible to “upgrade” from the first liability card 12A to the second liability card 12B upon attaining a predetermined net worth, possessing a predetermined amount of mock currency 102, and/or using the first liability card 12A a predetermined number of times. The “upgrade” may not be permanent, however, in that the players may be forced to relinquish the second liability card 12B to the “Banker” upon the occurrence of predetermined events, as discussed herein below. After relinquishing the second liability card 12B, a player will once again be provided with the first liability card 12A, and will have to again earn an “upgrade” to the second liability card 12B, e.g., by again satisfying the criteria discussed above. As previously indicated, each player's inventory of liability cards 12 will be monitored during play of the board game 100 using the tracking system 14.

At the inception of each player's turn, the players traverse a number of spaces 112 on the path 110 determined by a roll of the dice 106. As the players move about the path 110, the players may either elect, or may be required, to acquire an asset and/or assume or satisfy a liability. To do so, it is envisioned that a player may selectively use any mock currency 102 in her possession. Additionally, or alternatively, a player may elect to assume a particular level of liability on one of the liability cards 12 in her possession, which may be subsequently recorded using the tracking system 14. The players' ability to assume debt using the plurality of liability cards 12 will be limited by the corresponding available liability limit. For example, a player presented with the opportunity to acquire an asset having a value of $500 may choose to forfeit $250 in mock currency and assume $250 in liability on the first liability card 12A, if and only if, the player has at least $250 remaining available on the first liability card 12A.

Generally, the players will increase the liability balance of one or more liability cards 12 during play of the board game 100 either through the acquisition of an asset or through the assumption or satisfaction of a liability. Each such transaction will be recorded by the “Banker” using the tracking system 14.

During play, it is envisioned that the players may be required to reduce the liability balances of one or more liability cards 12 upon passing a predetermined space 112 on the path 110. The required reduction may be either predetermined or variable. For example, upon passing a space 112A, the players may be required to reduce the liability balance, if any, of each liability card 12 in their possession by $20. Alternatively, the players may be required to reduce the liability balance of each liability card 12 by a specified percentage, e.g., by 20%. The players may elect to reduce a liability balance either by surrendering an amount of mock currency 102 and/or by assuming additional liability on one of the other liability cards 12 in their possession, if any. For instance, a player having both the first and second liability cards 12A, 12B may reduce the liability balance of the first liability card 12A by $20 via the surrender of $10 in mock currency and the assumption of $10 in liability using the second liability card 12B. Alternatively, the players may be prohibited from using one of the liability cards 12 to reduce the liability balance of another, but rather, may only be permitted to reduce a liability balance through the surrender of mock currency 102. Upon making a required reduction, or otherwise reducing a liability balance, the “Banker” will record the transaction using the tracking system 14.

If a player is unable, or unwilling, to make a required reduction, the player may be assessed a penalty, which may be satisfied either through the surrender of mock currency 102, or through the assumption of additional liability on one or more of the plurality of liability cards 12. The penalty may be may be either predetermined, e.g., $20, or variable, e.g., a percentage of the existing liability balance, the required reduction, a player's net worth, or any other suitable figure. The penalty may be assessed during the turn in which the player fails to make the required reduction only, or alternatively, the penalty may be assessed continuously upon the inception of each subsequent turn. Any penalties that are assessed and satisfied during play may be record using the tracking system 14.

To provide the players with an incentive to eliminate any existing liability balance, the players may be assessed an “interest” penalty upon the payment of an amount less than the entire liability balance. The “interest” may added to the player's existing liability balance for subsequent payment, which will then be updated using the tracking system, or alternatively, the “interest” may require an immediate surrender of mock currency 102. The “interest” penalty may be either predetermined or variable. For example, a player reducing a liability balance of $1000 by $100 may be assessed a penalty of $20, or alternatively, may be assessed a penalty determined by a percentage of the liability balance, e.g., 10%. In one aspect of game play, when a player defaults on a payment, i.e., when a player is required to make a payment and fails to do so, the defaulting player will be removed from active play until the occurrence of predetermined events, e.g., the satisfaction of the required payment, and/or the payment of a penalty. In one specific embodiment of the system 10, a defaulting player may remain removed from active play until the defaulting player rolls “doubles” with the dice 106. It is envisioned that a defaulting player may remain entitled to any fees or monies coming due while that player is removed from active play, or alternatively, that any such fees or monies may be forfeited.

During play of the board game 100, a player's inventory of liability cards 12 will influence the opportunities and benefits afford the player. In general, players who have “upgraded” from the first liability card 12A will have an advantage over those players who have not, thus providing each player with an incentive to earn and keep the higher level liability cards, e.g., the second liability card 12B. For example, in one aspect of play, particular assets, such as properties, may only be available for purchase by players in possession of the second liability card 12B. In general, such assets will be more valuable than those that are available to any player, i.e., players that have not yet “upgraded” from the first liability card 12A. The present disclosure also contemplates, however, that a player may be granted or denied the opportunity to acquire a particular asset based on other factors, including but not limited to, the player's net worth and/or the amount of mock currency 102 available to the player.

Moreover, a player's inventory of liability cards may influence the payments received from other players. For example, it is customary in fantasy purchase board games, e.g., MONOPOLY, for players to become entitled to payment upon acquiring an asset, such as a property. Typically, such “rent” payments become due when another player lands on a space 112 corresponding to an asset that was previously acquired by another. In one aspect of game play, a player having “upgraded” from the first liability card 12A will be entitled to an increased “rent” payments. For example, a player in possession of only the first liability card 12A may be entitled to a “rent” payment of $100, whereas a player in possession of the second liability card 12B may be entitled to a “rent” payment of $200. Either additionally, or alternatively, a player having “upgraded” from the first liability card 12A will be subjected to a different “rent” payment than a player having failed to “upgrade.” In one example, a player having failed to “upgrade” from the first liability card 12A may be required to remit a “rent” payment of $75, whereas a player in possession of the second liability card 12B may be required to remit a “rent” payment of $50. In another example, a player in possession of only the first liability card 12A may be required to remit a “rent” payment of $50, whereas a player having “upgraded” to the second liability card 12B may be required to remit a “rent” payment of $75.

Each player's inventory of liability cards 12 will also influence the liabilities the players will be responsible for, and the penalties the players will be subject to. For example, in one aspect of play, only those players failing to “upgrade” from the first liability card 12A will be required to make the aforementioned reductions in one or more existing liability balances. Additionally, or alternatively, players having “upgraded” from the first liability card 12A may avoid any removal from active play when defaulting on a required payment, but rather, may merely be assessed a penalty to be later satisfied in addition to payment of the required amount.

It is also customary in fantasy purchase board games for players to become entitled to payment upon passing a predetermined space 112 on the board 104. For example, in MONOPOLY, players are provided with a $200 “salary” upon passing a “Start” space. When the system 10 is used in connection with such games, the “salary” awarded each player may also be influenced by the players' inventory of liability cards 12. For example, upon passing the space 1121, a player having “upgraded” from the first liability card 12A may be entitled to one “salary,” e.g., $400, whereas a player who has not “upgraded” may only be entitled to a “salary” of $200.

In one embodiment of the system 10, the present disclosure contemplates that the players may be limited to the possession of a single liability card, e.g., either the first liability card 12A or the second liability card 12B, at any given time. As such, a player will have to relinquish the first liability card 12A to the “Banker” upon “upgrading” to the second liability card 12B. In an Alternative embodiment, however, it is envisioned that the players may be allowed to possess and utilize more than one of the plurality of liability cards 12 at any given point in time during play.

When used in connection with the system 10, the board game 100 may be played until the players choose to end the game, or until the occurrence of a particular event. For example, play of the board game 100 may end when one of the players attains the second liability card 12B, possess a predetermined amount of mock currency 102, and/or has acquired a predetermined number of assets. Alternatively, with reference to FIG. 2, the system 10 may further include a timing mechanism 20 that establishes a time limit for play. At the end of the board game 100, the winner is determined by net worth, i.e., the player with the highest net worth will be declared the winner.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a board game 200 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure will be discussed. The board game 200 is similar to the aforedescribed board game 200 (FIG. 1) and includes various features of the system 10 discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-2, and accordingly, will only be discussed with respect to its differences therefrom. The board game 200 includes the aforementioned mock currency 102, dice 106, tokens 108, tracking system 14, and instructions for play “I” (FIG. 1), as well as a plurality of liability cards 208 and a board 202 including a path 204 divided into a plurality of spaces 206.

In the embodiment of the board game 200 seen in FIG. 3, the plurality of liability cards 208 includes at least one first liability card 208A, at least one second liability card 208B, and at least one third liability card 208C. However, an alternative embodiment of the board game 200 that includes either greater or fewer liability cards 208 is also within the scope of the present disclosure. The liability cards 208A, 208B, 208C correspond in number to the maximum number of players, and allow the players to acquire assets and/or assume or satisfy liabilities, as discussed above with respect to the system 10 seen in FIG. 1. The liability cards 208A, 208B, 208C are each attributed an initial liability balance of $0, and have different liability limits, thus allowing the players to assume different amounts of debt on each of the liability cards 208A, 208B, 208C. For example, in the embodiment of the board game 200 depicted in FIG. 3, the first and second liability cards 208A, 208B respectively include liability limits of $300 and $700, whereas the liability limit of the third liability card 208C will be infinite such that players may not be restricted in the amount of debt that may be assumed during play using the liability card 208C. In alternative embodiments of the board game 200, the initial liability balances and the liability limits of the respective first, second, and third liability cards 208A, 208B, 208C may be adjusted to vary play of the board game 200.

During play of the board game 200, the players will be given the opportunity to “upgrade” from the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B, and from the second liability card 208B to the third liability card 208C upon meeting predetermined criteria. For example, the players may be allowed go “upgrade” from the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B upon using the first liability card 208A a predetermined number of times, upon acquiring a predetermined number of assets, and/or upon reducing the first liability balance to $0. The particular liability cards 208 in each player's possession will me monitored by the “Banker” during play of the board game 200 using the tracking system 14.

In one specific embodiment of the board game 200, the players will be allowed to upgrade from the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B after using the first liability card 208A four times, reducing the corresponding liability balance of $0, acquiring $400 in mock currency, and acquiring at least four assets. These assets may include, for example, two shares in one of two companies reflected in spaces 206C on the path 204 and discussed below, and two individual properties. Similarly, the players will be allowed to upgrade to the third liability card 208C after using the second liability card 208B six times, reducing the corresponding liability balance of $0, acquiring $600 in mock currency 102, acquiring at least six assets, and establishing sole ownership, i.e., purchasing all the shares, of at least two of the companies. Additionally, in order to “upgrade” to the third liability card 208C, a player may be required to acquire and/or donate each of four empires reflected in spaces 206E on the path 204, or two companies in which the player has established sole ownership, to a “Give-Away” bank or lottery 210 included on the board 202, which will be discussed in more detail below.

In alternative embodiments of the board game 200, the conditions that must be met by the players to merit “upgrades” for the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B, and from the second liability card 208B to the third liability card 208C may be altered or adjusted. For example, the players may be required to establish a predetermined net worth before “upgrading” between the liability cards 208A, 208B, 208C.

After “upgrading” from the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B, a player must relinquish the first liability card 208A to the “Banker.” Likewise, after “upgrading” from the second liability card 208B to the third liability card 208C, a player must relinquish the second liability card 208B to the “Banker.” Accordingly, in the embodiment of the board game 200 seen in FIG. 3, each player will only be permitted to retain and use only a single liability card, i.e., liability card 208A, 208B, or 208C, at any give time during play of the board game 200. However, an embodiment of the board game 200 in which the players are permitted to retain and use more than one of the liability cards 208 is not beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

Referring still to FIG. 3, the board 202 will be described. The board 202 is similar to the board 104 discussed above with respect to FIG. 1, and includes the aforementioned path 204. The path 204 includes a plurality of spaces 206 representing assets that may be acquired and liabilities that may be assumed by the players using the mock currency 102 and/or the liability cards 208A, 208B, 208C. The assets represented by the spaces 206 are divided into three levels, i.e., first, second, and third levels, which may be indicated on the corresponding space 206 on the path 204, in the instructions for play “I,” or in any other suitable location. Whereas “first level” assets are available for acquisition by any player, “second level” assets are only available for acquisition by players in possession of the second liability card 208B, and “third level” assets are only available for acquisition by players in possession of the third liability card 208C. In general, the “third level” assets will be more valuable than the “second level” assets, and the “second level” assets will be more valuable than the “first level” assets. As the players acquire assets, the “Banker” will record the transactions using the tracking system 14.

The assets reflected in the spaces 206 include the aforementioned empires, which are represented by the spaces 206E, and companies, which are represented by the spaces 206C. When a player lands on one of the company spaces 206C, the player can elect to “invest” in the company by purchasing one or more shares using either mock currency 102, one of the liability cards 208, or a combination thereof. Each company will have a predetermined number of shares available for purchase, e.g., five shares, by one or more players. Thus, a company may be collectively owned by two or more players. However, a player may elect to purchase each share in the company, thereby leaving no shares available for purchase by the other players, and thus establishing sole ownership.

As the players move around the board 202, the players will pass a “paycheck” space 206P, at which time the players will be provided with an amount of mock currency 102 that is determined by the number of shares owned in each company. For example, a player may be provided with a first amount of mock currency 102 as a result of ownership of four shares in one company, and a second amount of mock currency 102 as a result of ownership of two shares in another company. In general, the amount of mock currency 102 provided the players upon passing the “paycheck” space 206P will increase with the number of shares acquired in the company, thus providing the players with an incentive to acquire as many shares as possible. It is envisioned that amount of mock currency 102 provided to a player upon passing the “paycheck” space 206P may be determined by the player's inventory of liability cards 208. For example, a player having “upgraded” from the first liability card 208A may be provided with more mock currency 102 than a player who has not “upgraded.”

As the players acquire shares in the companies, the purchases may be recorded by the “Banker” using the tracking system 14. Alternatively, and with reference to FIG. 3A, the players may be presented with a certificate 212 that provides the players with information pertaining to the particular company in which they have invested. For example, the certificate 212 may inform the players of how many shares are available for purchase, how many are owned by the player in possession of the certificate 212, the cost of each share, and the amount of mock currency that 102 (FIG. 3) will be provided to a player upon passing the “paycheck” space 206P. In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the each certificate 212 may be formed of a reusable material such that the players can record and update how many shares have been acquired in a particular company, for example, by marking and subsequently erasing remove the marks. erase

With continued reference to FIG. 3, play of the board game 200 will be discussed. Prior to beginning play, the players are each provided with a token 108 that is positioned on a “Start” space 206A. Additionally, each player is provided with the first liability card 208A, and the “Banker” is selected. The players may each be provided with a predetermined amount of mock currency 102, e.g., $1000. Alternatively, however, the players will not initially be given any mock currency 102 with which to acquire assets or satisfy liabilities, thereby potentially forcing the players to utilize the first liability card 208A and generate a liability balance.

The players take consecutive turns rolling the dice 106 to move about the path 204. As the players move about the path 204, they will be allowed, or instructed, to acquire assets and/or assume liabilities, at which time, the players may elect to use either the mock currency 102 or the first liability card 208A, either exclusively or in combination. Additionally, the players will be given the opportunity to “upgrade” from the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B, and from the second liability card 208B to the third liability card 208C, as discussed above.

As the players traverse the path 204, the players will be awarded an “allowance” upon passing a predetermined space, such as the “Start” space 206A for example, to thereby increase the amount of mock currency 102 available to the players. In one embodiment, it is envisioned that the “allowance” awarded each player will be determined by which of the liability cards 208 is in the players' possession. Generally, a player will become entitled to a greater “allowance” upon “upgrading” from the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B, and from the second liability card 208B to the third liability card 208C. For example, a player with the first liability card 208A may be awarded an “allowance” of $200, whereas a player with the second liability card 208B may be awarded an “allowance” of $400, and a player with the third liability card 208C may be awarded an “allowance” of $600.

Additionally, players having generated a liability balance will be required to make reductions, or “minimum payments,” payable to the “Banker” as they travel along the path 204. In one embodiment of the board game 200, the players will be required to reduce any existing liability balance by a predetermined amount upon passing a predetermined space 206 on the path 204. For example, the players may be required pay $20 in mock currency 102 towards any existing liability balance upon passing the “Start” space 206A. To encourage the players to make the required “minimum payment,” any player failing to remit payment may be assessed a penalty. For example, a player may be assessed a “late payment” penalty of $20, which will be added to the player's corresponding liability balance.

To provide the players with an incentive to reduce any existing liability balance as quickly as possible, any existing liability balance will generate “interest.” The “interest” may be calculated independently of any existing liability balance, e.g., a fixed fee of $20, or the “interest may constitute a percentage of any corresponding liability balance, e.g., 10%. The “interest” penalty may be assessed when the players pass a predetermined space 206 on the path 204, such as the “Start” space 206A, or at any other suitable time.

In one embodiment of the board game 200, it is envisioned that the “interest” penalty added to an existing liability balance will be determined by which of the liability cards 208 is in a player's possession. For example, a player with an existing liability balance on the first liability card 208A may be subject to a $20 fee, whereas a player with an existing liability balance on the second liability card 208B may be subject to a $30 fee, and a player with an existing liability balance on the third liability card 208C may be subject to $40 fee. It is also contemplated that one or more of the liability cards 208, such as the first liability card 208A for example, may allow the players to carry a liability balance that is not subject to any interest.

In one specific embodiment of the board game 200, a player with the first liability card 208A will be required to reduce any corresponding liability balance by $20 when passing the “Start” space 206A, but will not be charged any “interest.” Similarly, a player with the second liability card 208B will also be required to reduce any corresponding liability balance by $20 when passing the “Start” space 206A, but will be subject to a $20 “interest” fee. Finally, a player with the third liability card 208C will not be required to make any “minimum payment,” nor will such a player be charged any “interest.” However, players with the third liability card 208C will be required to completely reduce any corresponding liability balance upon traversing the path 204 a predetermined number of times. For example, players with the third liability card 208C will be required to pay any corresponding liability balance in full upon passing the “Start” space 206A on every other occasion. Players with the third liability card 208C who cannot, or otherwise fail to reduce any corresponding liability balance in full when required to do so will be assessed a penalty. For example, it is contemplated that a player's failure to reduce the third liability balance as required will result in that player's forfeiture of the third liability card 208C, which can be recorded using the tracking system 14. Such a player will remain responsible for the third liability balance, and will again be provided with the first liability card 208A. Thereafter, the player can “upgrade” to the third liability card 208C upon meeting predetermined criteria, such as upon the elimination of the third liability balance and the acquisition of $1500 in mock currency 102.

The board game 200 will continue until the players decide to end play. Alternatively, the players may agree upon the occurrence of a predetermined event that will end play, e.g., when one of the players attains the third liability card 208C, or the players may set a time limit, at the end of which, the player with the highest net worth will be declared the winner.

For example, play of the board game 100 may end when one of the players attains the second liability card 12B, possess a predetermined amount of mock currency 102, and/or has acquired a predetermined number of assets. Alternatively, with reference to FIG. 2, the system 10 may further include a timing mechanism 20 that establishes a time limit for play. At the end of the board game 100, the winner is determined by net worth, i.e., the player with the highest net worth will be declared the winner.

In alternate embodiments, the board game 200 may include additional features and components, which will be discussed with respect to FIGS. 4-7. FIG. 4 illustrates a plurality of value enhancers 214 that act to increase the worth of an asset to which they are attributed by increasing the “rent” payment that must be paid when another player lands on the correspond space 206 on the path 204 (FIG. 3). Thus, the “rent” a player must pay to the owner of an asset will be increased if the corresponding space has been attributed one or more value enhancers 214.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the plurality of value enhancers 214 includes a plurality of first value enhancers 214A and a plurality of second value enhancers 214B. It should be appreciated, however, that the inclusion of additional value enhancers, e.g., a plurality of third value enhancers (not shown) is also contemplated by the present disclosure. When associated with an asset, the value enhancers 214A, 214B increase the worth thereof by differing amounts. Accordingly, associating the first value enhancer 214A with an asset will increase the “rent” payment due from players landing on the corresponding space 206 by a first amount, whereas associating the second value enhancer 214B with the same asset will increase the “rent” payment by a second, typically greater amount.

In one embodiment of the board game 200, it is contemplated that the value enhancers 214 may be made immediately available to the players for purchase upon acquiring an asset. In an alternate embodiment, however, the value enhancers 214 are not made immediately available, but rather, the players must become eligible to purchase and distribute the value enhancers 214 amongst the assets in their possession. For example, the players may only become eligible to purchase and distribute the value enhancers 214 after “upgrading” from the first liability card 208A.

A player may purchase one or more of the value enhancers 214A, using either or both of mock currency 102 (FIG. 3) and one of the plurality of liability cards 208, and associate the value enhancers 214A to one or more assets. After associating four value enhancers 214A with a particular asset, a player will become eligible to purchase one of the value enhancers 214B, if and only if, the player is in possession of the third liability card 208C. When purchased, the value enhancer 214B will replace the four value enhancers 214A already associated with the asset.

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 5, the board game 200 may further include a plurality of credit notes 216. The credit notes 216 are distributed to the players prior to beginning play, and act as an acceptable form of payment, in addition to the mock currency 102 and the plurality of liability cards 208, that may be used to acquire an asset and/or assume or satisfy a liability. For example, the credit notes 216 may be used in those situations where a player does not have any mock currency 102 available, and has reached the liability limit on each of the liability cards 208 in the player's possession. Upon using one of the credit notes 216, a player will create a credit balance that will be recorded using the tracking system 14. Each player's credit balance will have to be satisfied during the course of play and returned to $0. It is envisioned that the players may be assessed a penalty for maintaining a credit balance, thereby incentivizing the players to eliminating any credit balance as quickly as possible. For example, in one embodiment of the board game 200, a player having a credit balance may be assessed a penalty of $20 at the inception of that player's every turn. However, if the player elects to pay the credit balance prior to rolling the dice 106, the $20 penalty will not be assessed. As an additional, or alternative penalty, a player realizing a predetermined credit balance, such as $1000 for example, may be forced to relinquish one or more liability cards to the “Banker,” e.g., the second liability card 208B, and a player realizing an credit balance of $2000 may automatically lose the board game 200.

With reference now to FIGS. 3 and 6, in one embodiment, the board game 200 may further include a plurality of benefit cards 218 and a plurality of detriment cards 220. The benefit cards 218 direct play of the board game 200 in favor of a player drawing such a card, whereas the detriment cards provide a player drawing such a card with a disadvantage. For example, a benefit card 218 may provide a player with additionally mock currency 102 (FIG. 3) or an additional asset, whereas a detriment card 220 may result a player's turn being forfeited. The players are directed to draw from the benefit and detriment cards 218, 220 upon landing on corresponding spaces 206B, 206D, respectively, on the path 204.

Referring again to FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the aforementioned “Give-Away” bank 210 will be described. The “Give-Away” bank 210 provides an additional mechanism through which the players may be provided with assets and/or mock currency 102, and has a corresponding “Give-Away” space 206G on the path 204 of the board 202. When a player lands on the “Give-Away” space 206G, that player will take possession of the assets and/or mock currency present in the “Give-Away” bank 210 at the time.

During play of the board game 200, the “Banker” ensures that a predetermined amount of mock currency 102, e.g., $200, is always present in the “Give-Away” bank 210, in addition to any other assets or additional mock currency 102. As such, when a player lands on the “Give-Away” space 206G, the “Banker” will immediately deposit $200, for example, which will be provided to the next player landing on the “Give-Away” space 206G. Additional means by which the number of assets and/or the amount of mock currency 102 deposited with the “Give-Away” bank 210 may be increased during play of the board game 200 are also contemplated. For example, the players may be required to contribute to the “Give-Away” bank 210 upon drawing one of the plurality of detriment cards 220 (FIG. 6).

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 7, in another embodiment, the board game 200 may further include a plurality of investment slips 222. The investment slips 222 allow the players to participate in an investment program, wherein the players temporarily “invest” a first amount of finds with the “Banker,” e.g., $100, in exchange for the return of a second, greater amount of funds, e.g., $200. The “investment” may be made using mock currency 102 and/or one or more of the liability cards 208. When a player invests using mock currency 102, the player will provide the “Banker” with the investment slip 222 and the amount of mock currency 102 corresponding to the investment. When a player invests using one or more of the liability cards 208, the player will provide the “Banker” with the investment slip 222, and the “Banker” will increase the liability balance of the liability card 208 used to make the investment. The amount of the “investment” may be limited, e.g., to $150, or alternatively, may be solely within the players' discretion. Any “investment” made with the “Banker,” as well as any corresponding return, may be recorded using the tracking system 14.

It is envisioned that the players may be permitted to “invest” the first amount of funds upon passing any one of the spaces 206 on the path 204, or alternately, that the players may only make such an “investment” upon passing a predetermined “investment” space 206I. In either event, a player will be provided with the second amount of funds upon completely traversing the path 204 a predetermined number of times. For example, the second amount of finds may be provided to a player the next time the player passes the “investment” space 206I.

The players may be automatically eligible to participate in the investment program merely by playing the board game 200, or alternatively, may only become eligible upon meeting particular conditions. For example, a player may only be allowed to participate in the investment program upon attaining a predetermined net worth, upon the possession of a predetermined amount of mock currency 102, or upon “upgrading” from the first liability card 208A. In one particular embodiment, a player will only become eligible to participate in the investment program upon “upgrading” from the first liability card 208A to the second liability card 208B, in accordance with the criteria set forth above. In this embodiment, upon “upgrading” to the second liability card 208B, the players will be provided with three investment slips 222 for subsequently making one or more “investments.” Thereafter, should the player subsequently “upgrade” from the second liability card 208B to the third liability card 208C, the player may be provided with three additional investment slips 222. In this embodiment, after “investing” the first amount of funds, a player will be provided with twice the “investment” amount upon completing traversing the path 204.

During the course of play, the players may be required to remit particular payments either to another player, e.g., “rent,” or to the “Banker,”, e.g., in the form of an obligatory “minimum payment” intended to reduce an existing liability balance. In the embodiment of the board game 200 illustrated in FIG. 3, should a player be unable to make any such required payment, the defaulting player will be removed from active play. The player's token will be positioned on a “debtor's prison” space 206DP until the predetermined conditions have been met. For example, the player may not be permitted to move from the “debtor's prison” space 206DP until the player either rolls “doubles” with the dice 106. Alternatively, the player may be released from the “debtor's prison” space 206DP upon drawing or using an exemption card (not shown) included in either the plurality of benefit cards 218 (FIG. 6) or the plurality of detriment cards 220 (FIG. 6). While removed from active play, a defaulting player may be denied the opportunity to traverse the path 204, and thus, acquire assets and advance in the game. The defaulting player may remain entitled to any funds or monies payable to that player, such as “rent” earned as a result of another player landing on a space 206 corresponding to an asset owned by the defaulting player, for example, or alternatively, the defaulting player may not be entitled to any such funds or monies.

In one embodiment, it is envisioned that a player may be able to return to active play upon the payment of a penalty. For example, a defaulting player removed from active play and failing to roll “doubles” may be allowed to remit payment to the “Banker,” or alternatively, into the “Give-Away” bank 210, and thereby return to active play. In this embodiment, it is contemplated that the amount of the penalty may be determined by a player's inventory of liability cards 208. For example, a player in possession of the first liability card 208A only may be allowed to return to active play upon remitting a payment of $100, whereas a player in possession of the second liability card 208B may have to remit a payment of $50, and a player in possession of the third liability card 208C may have to remit a payment of $25. It is also contemplated that players in possession of the third liability card 208C may be exempt from the “debtor's prison” space 206DP, and thus, never removed from active play. Instead, such players may be assessed a predetermined fine, e.g., payable to either the “Banker,” or instead, into the “Give-Away” bank 210. Either additionally, or alternatively, it is also contemplated that one player may remit payment on behalf of another, e.g., into the “Give-Away” bank 210, to thereby allow a defaulting player to return to active play.

Referring now to FIG. 8, another embodiment of the board game, referred to generally by the reference character 300, will be discussed. The board game 300 is substantially similar to the board game 200 discussed above with respect to FIGS. 3-7, and accordingly, will only be discussed with respect to its differences therefrom.

The board game 300 includes a board 302 that is substantially similar to the board 202 (FIG. 3) discussed above. The board 302 includes a path 304 that is divided into a plurality of blocks 306, e.g., block 306A, 306B, 306C, 306D, which may be differentiated through the use of different colors, or in any other suitable manner. Each of the blocks 306A-306D includes a plurality of spaces 308 representing the assets that may be acquired and the liabilities that may be assumed by the players.

During play of the board game 300, in order to “upgrade” from one liability card to another, e.g., from the second liability card 206B to the third liability card 206C (FIG. 3), the players must acquire each asset comprising at least one block, e.g., block 306A. Additionally, the players will be required to acquire at least one block 306 in order to become eligible to purchase the aforedescribed value enhancers 214A, 214B (FIG. 3).

While the above is a complete description of the disclosed embodiments, various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents are also envisioned that do not depart from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For example, the features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments discussed above are intended to be non-limiting and exemplary only, and accordingly, that the present disclosure is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. 

1. A system for use with a board game playable by a plurality of players and including a board and one or more tokens, the system comprising: a plurality of liability cards allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a liability limit, the plurality of liability cards including a liability balance, and a tracking system for monitoring the liability assumed by each of the players using the plurality of liability cards.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of liability cards includes a first liability card and a second liability card, the first liability card allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a first liability limit and the second liability card allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a second liability limit.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the second liability limit is greater than the first liability limit.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of liability cards further includes a third liability card allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a third liability limit, the third liability limit being greater than the first liability limit and the second liability limit.
 5. A method of playing a board game including a board and one or more tokens, the method comprising the steps of: providing a plurality of liability cards, wherein the plurality of liability cards includes at least a first liability card with a first liability balance and a second liability card with a second liability balance, the first liability card allowing players of the board game to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a first liability limit and the second liability card allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a second liability limit; providing each player with the first liability card; providing each player with the second liability card upon meeting predetermined criteria; and playing the board game, the step of playing the board game including allowing each player to selectively use at least one of the first liability card and the second liability card to assume a liability during play of the board game, wherein using the first liability card to assume a liability increases the first liability balance and using the second liability card to assume a liability increases the second liability balance.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the step of providing a plurality of liability cards includes providing at least a first liability card and a second liability card wherein the second liability limit is greater than the first liability limit.
 7. The method of claim 5, wherein the step of providing each player with the second liability card includes providing each player with the second liability card upon using the first liability card a predetermined number of times.
 8. The method of claim 5, wherein the step of providing each player with the second liability card includes providing each player with the second liability card upon acquiring a predetermined number of assets.
 9. The method of claim 5, wherein the step of providing each player with the second liability card includes providing each player with the second liability card upon reducing the first liability balance to zero.
 10. The method of claim 5, wherein the step of playing the board game includes providing each player with the first liability card a first allowance upon passing a predetermined location on the board, and providing each player with the second liability card a second allowance upon passing the predetermined location on the board, the second allowance being greater than the first allowance.
 11. The method of claim 5, wherein each player is limited to possessing a single liability card such that each player relinquishes the first liability card upon receiving the second liability card.
 12. The method of claim 5, wherein the step of playing the board game includes requiring the players to reduce at least one of the first liability balance and the second liability balance by at least a predetermined amount upon passing a predetermined location on the board.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of playing the board game includes increasing the second liability balance by a predetermined amount upon partially reducing the second liability balance.
 14. The method of claim 5, wherein the step of providing a plurality of liability cards further includes providing a third liability card with a third liability balance, the third liability card allowing the players to assume an amount of liability less than or equal to a third liability limit, wherein the third liability limit is greater than the first liability limit and the second liability limit.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the step of playing the board game includes providing each player with the third liability card upon meeting predetermined criteria.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of playing the board game includes providing each player with the third liability card upon using the second liability card a predetermined number of times.
 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of playing the board game includes providing each player with the third liability card upon reducing the second liability balance to zero.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of playing the board game includes providing each player with the first liability card a first allowance upon passing a predetermined location on the board, providing each player with the second liability card a second allowance upon passing the predetermined location on the board, and providing each player with the third liability card a third allowance upon passing the predetermined location on the board, the third allowance being greater than the second allowance and the second allowance being greater than the first allowance.
 19. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of playing the board game includes requiring each player in possession of the third liability card to reduce the third liability balance to zero upon passing a predetermined location on the board a predetermined number of times.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the step of playing the board game includes requiring each player failing to reduce the third liability balance to zero upon passing the predetermined location on the board the predetermined number of times to relinquish the third liability card. 